Mesocyclone and Microburst Signature Distortion with Dual PRT Radars

Abstract

A simple model is used to illustrate the limitations of dual pulse repetition time (PRT) radars for measurements of wind fields with strong horizontal wind gradients. In such conditions, errors may occur even if the radial velocity measurements in the individual rays are not aliased. However, basic circulation and divergent signatures are seen and some improvement is possible with further postprocessing of the data. This is significant, as radars using this procedure are being used operationally for severe weather applications in Australia and Canada.